Eritrea,
a former Ethiopian province and Italian Colony, gained independence in 1993. South
Africa and the State of Eritrea agreed in 1994 to establish diplomatic relations.
Ambassador WAW Nhlapo, South Africa's first non-resident Ambassador to Eritrea,
presented his Credentials to President Isaias Afewerki on 12 March 1996.

The
war that broke out with Ethiopia (1998-2000) impacted negatively until recently
on official bi-lateral visits and further co-operation / investment with Eritrea.
The Eritrean Ambassador to South Africa is Mr T Gerahtu.

The rainy season is from May to September with average
temperatures of 19 degrees Celsius during the day. The dry season is from October
to April with average temperatures during the day of 22 degrees Celsius.

Lowland
and Coast

This area is hot and humid with day temperatures reaching between
40-45 degrees Celsius.